Alpine eco-SPHERE PUR1400 - User Manual

This document describes the Alpine Eco-Sphere™ pump, a high-performance pump designed for pond and waterfall applications. It emphasizes energy efficiency, continuous operation, and ease of maintenance.

Function Description

The Alpine Eco-Sphere™ pump is engineered for use in filtration systems, waterfalls, and ponds. It is designed to be highly energy efficient while maintaining maximum output, making it suitable for continuous operation even in harsh pond environments. For select models, a precise inline controller allows users to customize and adjust water flow for various applications. The pump can be installed submerged directly in the pond or "in-line" (outside the water), provided it is primed and water is continuously running through it.

Important Technical Specifications

The manual provides a table of specifications for several Eco-Sphere™ models: PUR1400, PUR2800, PUR4100, and PUR5400C.

PUR1400:

• Maximum Flow Rate: 1400 GPH / 5300 LPH
• Maximum Head: 12 feet
• Motor Type: Magnet
• Wattage: 35
• Power Cord Length: 33 feet
• Pump Discharge Diameter: 1.5 inches
• Pump Dimensions: 13"L x 12"W x 6"H
• Controller Dimensions: NA
• Pump Flow (at various heads):
  • 5': 982 GPH / 3717 LPH
  • 10': 348 GPH / 1317 LPH
  • 15': -
  • 20': -

PUR2800:

• Maximum Flow Rate: 2800 GPH / 11000 LPH
• Maximum Head: 16.5 feet
• Motor Type: Magnet
• Wattage: 80
• Power Cord Length: 33 feet
• Pump Discharge Diameter: 1.5 inches
• Pump Dimensions: 13"L x 12"W x 6"H
• Controller Dimensions: NA
• Pump Flow (at various heads):
  • 5': 1806 GPH / 6836 LPH
  • 10': 1014 GPH / 3838 LPH
  • 15': -
  • 20': -

PUR4100:

• Maximum Flow Rate: 4100 GPH / 15500 LPH
• Maximum Head: 20 feet
• Motor Type: Magnet
• Wattage: 145
• Power Cord Length: 33 feet
• Pump Discharge Diameter: 2 inches
• Pump Dimensions: 13"L x 12"W x 6"H
• Controller Dimensions: NA
• Pump Flow (at various heads):
  • 5': 2761 GPH / 10451 LPH
  • 10': 1494 GPH / 5655 LPH
  • 15': 617 GPH / 2335 LPH
  • 20': 266 GPH / 1007 LPH

PUR5400C:

• Maximum Flow Rate: 2000-5400 GPH / 1500-200000 LPH (Note: The LPH value for 5400 GPH is listed as 200000, which seems like a typo and should likely be 20440 LPH based on conversion from GPH)
• Maximum Head: 20.5 feet
• Motor Type: Magnet
• Wattage: 200
• Power Cord Length: 33 feet
• Pump Discharge Diameter: 2 inches
• Pump Dimensions: 13"L x 12"W x 6"H
• Controller Dimensions: 7"L x 6"W x 3"H
• Pump Flow (at various heads):
  • 5': 3672 GPH / 13900 LPH
  • 10': 2469 GPH / 9346 LPH
  • 15': 1624 GPH / 6147 LPH
  • 20': 698 GPH / 2642 LPH

General Specifications:

• Operating Temperature: Suitable for water temperatures from 32°F (0°C) to 95°F (35°C).
• Warranty: 3-year warranty on pump body, cover, filter, and accessories. 1-year warranty on impeller and internal moving parts. Replaceable filtering material is not covered.

Usage Features

• Pre-filter Cage: A durable pre-filter pump cage minimizes pump damage and clogging by selectively screening larger debris particles. It is crucial to operate the pump with the pre-filter cage fully snapped shut to prevent large debris from entering and to protect fish or other pond wildlife.
• Carrying Handle: Pumps feature a convenient carrying handle for easy placement.
• Rotating Adapters: 360° rotating adapters allow for flexible placement and connection.
• Click-Fit Connectors: Enable simple disassembly for routine maintenance and compatibility with other Alpine series pond systems.
• Inline Controller (Select Models): For models like the PUR5400C, an inline controller is included, allowing users to customize and adjust water flow using plus and minus buttons, and to turn the pump on or off. The controller can be hung on a wall using its notch.
• Installation:
  • Submerged Installation: The pump should be submerged directly into the pond. It is recommended to place the pump as far away as possible from the water feature's return point to maximize pond circulation. The pump should not be positioned in the deepest area of the pond to protect fish in case of a leak and should be raised off the bottom using bricks or stones if needed. A minimum of 4 inches of water above the pump is required, and the maximum immersion depth is 13 feet.
  • Dry Installation (In-line): The pump can also be installed outside the water. In this configuration, the pre-filter cage should be removed. The pump must be placed below the water level next to the pond as it is not self-priming, ensuring water can flow into it. The suction hose must be completely filled with water before operation. A pre-filter on the suction side is recommended to prevent soiling.
• Safety Precautions:
  • Always connect to properly grounded, ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets.
  • Do not use in swimming pools, aquariums, or as a sump pump.
  • Ensure watertight and dustproof connections if using an extension cord.
  • Unplug the pump at the receptacle outlet when not in use or before removal from the pond.
  • Inspect the power cable regularly for damage; never cut the cord or handle it with wet hands.
  • Avoid touching moving or hot parts.
  • Do not use the power cable to lift the pump.
  • Do not pump hazardous materials or liquids.
  • Ensure no debris blocks the pre-filter cage.

Maintenance Features

• Regular Cleaning: Alpine suggests verifying pump performance weekly. If water flow diminishes, first clean the pre-filter cage and tubing. If performance is still not restored, clean the impeller and internal pump body.
• Disassembly for Cleaning: The manual provides detailed instructions for dismantling and reassembling the pump for cleaning. This involves removing the top pre-filter cage, cable clamp, brackets, pump front cover, and impeller.
• Impeller Care: The pump impeller features a high-quality ceramic shaft. Extreme care should be taken when handling it to avoid breakage or hairline fractures.
• Pre-Filter Cage Cleaning: The pre-filter cage should be regularly inspected for debris. It can be cleaned by pulling the pump out of the water and removing debris, or by spraying it with a garden hose.
• Winter Care: In cold climates, it is highly recommended to store the pump indoors during the coldest months. The pump should be cleaned with fresh water and stored in a frost-free location in a container full of water to prevent the O-rings from drying out. The pump cannot be used in below-freezing temperatures.
• Troubleshooting Guide: The manual includes a troubleshooting section for common issues such as reduced water flow, humming without pushing water, complete shut-off, and intermittent operation. Solutions typically involve checking for clogs, cleaning the pre-filter and impeller, verifying correct voltage, checking water temperature, or replacing the impeller.
• Replacement Parts: A comprehensive list of replacement parts is provided, including impellers, O-rings, fitting sets, bracket sets, pre-filter cages, and controllers, along with their respective SKU numbers. Parts can be ordered from the original place of purchase.
• Waste Disposal: Electrical home appliances, including this pump, should be disposed of according to US standards, collected separately from normal household waste, and processed in an environmentally friendly manner.